Kay's German Chocolate Layer Cake with Coconut Pecan Filling

Indulge in the rich, nostalgic flavors of Kay's German Chocolate Layer Cake with Coconut Pecan Filling—a true showstopper for any dessert table. This decadent homemade cake features tender, moist layers of chocolate cake made with semisweet chocolate and buttermilk for an irresistible flavor and texture. The cake is then generously filled and topped with a luscious coconut pecan filling, crafted from creamy evaporated milk, toasted pecans, and sweetened shredded coconut, delivering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. With its elegant layers and rustic finish, this classic German chocolate cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where only the most indulgent dessert will do. The recipe is easy to follow, with simple steps to achieve bakery-worthy results right in your own kitchen. Serve this cake at room temperature to savor the full complexity of its ingredients, and enjoy compliments from every guest!

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 4 oz Semisweet chocolate
• 0.5 cup Boiling water
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 0.25 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 4 large Egg yolks
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 4 large Egg whites
• 1 cup Evaporated milk
• 3 large Egg yolks (for filling)
• 0.5 cup Brown sugar, packed
• 0.5 cup Butter
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract (for filling)
• 1.33 cups Sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup Pecans, toasted and chopped

Directions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles.

Step 2

In a small bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate by pouring the boiling water over it. Stir until smooth, then let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3

In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 5

Add the 4 egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the cooled melted chocolate.

Step 6

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 7

In a separate, clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks using an electric mixer. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, taking care not to overmix.

Step 8

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9

Cool the cakes in their pans on wire racks for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto the racks to cool completely.

Step 10

To make the coconut pecan filling, combine the evaporated milk, 3 egg yolks, brown sugar, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 8-10 minutes).

Step 11

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the filling cool to room temperature.

Step 12

To assemble the cake, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the coconut pecan filling on top. Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading the filling on top of each.

Step 13

For presentation, spread any remaining filling on the sides of the cake or leave the sides exposed for a rustic look. Optionally, garnish with extra pecans or toasted coconut.

Step 14

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Serve at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2305.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8055.5

Total Fat 474.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 245.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 2115.9mg	0%
Sodium 3609.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 879.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 34.5g	0%
Total Sugars 641.0g
Protein 109.3g	0%

Vitamin D 473.6IU	0%
Calcium 1527.5mg	0%
Iron 22.4mg	0%
Potassium 3244.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.9%

Protein: 5.3%

Carbs: 42.8%